How to Get Rid of Unwanted Furniture: Donate, Sell, or Remove Easily

People often get confused while removing unwanted furniture because of the cost and hassle involved. Hiring a removal service can be expensive, and many people aren’t sure if they should sell, donate, or dump the items. Some try to post online, others leave furniture outside hoping someone picks it up, but that doesn’t always work. So, how to get rid of unwanted furniture?

We'd suggest either scheduling a bulk pickup through your local waste service or donating the furniture to a nearby charity is the easiest option if you want to get rid of unwanted furniture. Let’s get into the details.

Deciding on the options first 🔗

When it comes to removing unwanted furniture, most people jump straight to disposal without weighing the alternatives. But taking a few moments to explore your options can make the process smoother and more cost-effective.

• Is the piece still in good shape? If so, consider donating it—many charities in the U.S. offer free pickup services, making it a hassle-free choice.
• If it's worn out or broken, scheduling a bulk pickup through your local waste management service is often the easiest route.
• Another convenient option is hiring a haul-away service. Though it comes at a cost, it's fast, professional, and perfect for larger or multiple pieces.
• And if you’d prefer to sell, platforms like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp are great for quick listings.

Deciding on the right path first helps avoid confusion later and turns what feels like a chore into a simple task.

5 ways you can get rid of unwanted furniture 🔗

You’re often stuck wondering, “Do I sell it? Dump it? Can I even give it away?” The real struggle is finding an option that doesn’t take forever, cost a fortune, or leave you with a backache. Here you’ve five options to consider - Donate or recycle, Pickup with waste management, Hire a haul away service, Sell it in the marketplace, Refurbish or upcycle.

1. Donate or Recycle 🔗

If your furniture is still in good shape, donating is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStores or Goodwill often offer free pickup for larger items. In 2022, Habitat for Humanity reported that donations helped divert more than 44,000 tons of reusable material from landfills. Pretty impactful, right? Just call ahead to make sure they accept what you’re giving away—many don’t take items like mattresses or damaged pieces. For recycling, check Earth911.com to find local centers that handle furniture materials like wood, metal, or fabric. It’s an easy step with a big environmental return.

Where to go:

• Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Accepts gently used furniture and offers free pickup in many areas.
• Goodwill or Salvation Army – Drop-off or schedule a pickup if available in your area.
• Earth911.com – Find local recycling centers that accept wood, metal, or upholstered furniture.

Learn More: How to Get Rid of a Mattress

2. Pickup with Waste Management 🔗

Sometimes the easiest option is right under your nose—your local waste management service. Most U.S. cities offer bulk item pickup, though you’ll usually need to schedule it in advance. For example, in Los Angeles, residents are allowed up to four free bulky item pickups per year by calling 3-1-1. To make it hassle-free, place the item curbside the night before pickup, following any city guidelines. It's fast, simple, and already part of your existing municipal service.

Where to go:

• City Waste Services – Many cities like New York (DSNY), San Francisco Recology, or Chicago’s Streets & Sanitation offer scheduled bulk pickups.
• Call 3-1-1 in most cities or check your city’s website to schedule a furniture pickup.

3. Hire a Haul Away Service 🔗

If you're tight on time or just want it gone without lifting a finger, hiring a haul-away service is the way to go. Companies like WeCycle or LoadUp will pick up the item from wherever it sits. This is especially helpful if you're dealing with large or multiple items. Yes, it comes with a cost, but the convenience often makes it worth every penny, especially when you're on a moving deadline.

Where to go:

• WeCycle – A sustainable junk removal service that prioritizes donation and recycling over dumping. Available in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston.
• 1-800-GOT-JUNK – Offers fast, professional removal in most major U.S. cities. They'll take furniture directly from inside your home.
• LoadUp – Known for upfront pricing and eco-friendly practices, available in over 170 U.S. cities.

4. Sell It in the Marketplace 🔗

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple Facebook Marketplace listing. People love a good deal, and your old dresser might be just what someone else is hunting for. A friend once listed her worn-out dining table for $20—within 30 minutes, five people had messaged her. To make it hassle-free, take clear photos, write a short honest description, and mention if pickup is required. Stick to cash or secure payment apps, and always arrange to meet in safe, public areas if needed. Where to go:

• Facebook Marketplace – Nationwide, local listings with high visibility.
• OfferUp or Letgo – App-based selling platforms with local pickup options.
• Craigslist – Still widely used for furniture sales in cities like Seattle, Austin, and Denver.

5. Refurbish or Upcycle 🔗

Got a creative itch? Turn that outdated piece into something beautiful with a little DIY magic. An old dresser can become a bathroom vanity, or a scratched table can get new life with sanding and paint. A 2023 Etsy trend report showed a 38% increase in searches for upcycled furniture, proving people love pieces with character. It’s cost-effective and satisfying. Even better—document your process. Who knows, your simple project could become a social media hit or inspire others to do the same. Where to go:

• Local maker spaces – Places like TechShop (Detroit) or Maker Works (Ann Arbor) offer tools and classes for DIY upcycling.
• Etsy – Once you upcycle, you can even try selling your pieces here!
• Pinterest or YouTube – Tons of DIY tutorials to guide you through creative refurbishing.

Wrap-up: Letting go, the right way 🔗

Getting rid of old furniture isn’t always easy. It can hold memories, emotions, and stress. Maybe it’s been with you for years, or maybe you just don’t know what to do with it. That’s okay. What matters is finding a way to let go that feels right. You can pass it on to someone who needs it, give it a new life, or simply clear it out to make room for something new. Letting go can be simple and it can feel really good. Because sometimes, a little extra space is all we need to feel lighter. Contact us and let us make it easy for you.

Frequently Asked Questions 🔗

How can I dispose of furniture if I don’t have a vehicle or can’t drive? 🔗

Many charities like Habitat for Humanity or Salvation Army offer free pickup. You can also book a junk removal service or schedule a bulk pickup with your city.

Will furniture left curbside be collected or taken by someone? 🔗

In many cities, you can schedule bulk trash pickup. If allowed, you can also leave items with a “FREE” sign—neighbors often take them quickly.

What’s the best way to sell or give away furniture online quickly? 🔗

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp are popular for quick sales or free giveaways. “Buy Nothing” groups are great for donations.

Are junk removal services or municipal bulk trash pickups more affordable? 🔗

City bulk trash pickup is usually free but may have limits. Junk removal services cost more but offer fast, hassle-free furniture removal.

Are there creative local alternatives to get rid of furniture? 🔗

Yes! Check if your city has swap events, donation drives, or even secondhand shops that accept large items.